Silva
Ardeonaig, Perthshire, Scotland, UK
On the southern shore of Loch Tay hunkers a contemporary hideaway that melts into the Highland landscape. Conceived by a creative couple with deep-running Scottish roots, Silva was brought to life in 2021 with the help of an architect in the family who paired radical eco-technology with Japanese restraint. Vast glass planes capture the cinematic sweep from loch to Munros, while the rewilded terrain dissolves boundaries between sculptural interiors and Scotland's elemental beauty.
Introduction
Built from locally quarried stone, Silva rises from a sloping hillside off a single-track stretch of the Rob Roy Way. Its rugged façade blends into the native grasses that surround it, a deliberate camouflage against the Highland setting. Designed as a sanctuary for rest and reconnection, the single-storey retreat frames soul-stirring views, its understated interiors transforming under an ever-shifting play of natural light. Almost running entirely off grid and with eco-conscious credentials – ground source heating and a private borehole – Silva treads lightly on the land it commands.
Inside
On entry, a sense of calm envelopes the space. The landscape is the focal point throughout, as floor-to-ceiling windows make art of Loch Tay’s shore, a composition of brooding hills, woodlands, and hidden beaches. Influenced by Japanese minimalism, the interiors are subtle and serene, with white walls and pale timber floors behaving as a neutral backdrop for modern furnishings and ceramics hand thrown by the owner. An open plan living area invites quiet mornings watching the loch below and evenings gathered around the table for freshly-caught rainbow trout from its waters.
Outside
The gardens at Silva have been gently rewilded, encouraging native flora to thrive and inviting regular visits from red squirrels, deer, and gamebirds. Just beyond lie the ruins of 19th century miners’ cottages – relics of the Tomnadashan copper mine. Days here are filled with long walks and cycles beside the loch, or kayaking its serene waters. Climbers will be beckoned by eight Munros visible from the house, while cold water swimming offers immersion in nature. Head to the spa in Kenmore which is complete with a hot tub, sauna, steam room, and slide that leads straight into the loch.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 8 guests from £3,250 per week
- Alternative group optionUp to 4 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThere are five ground floor double bedrooms, two of which have en suites. The other three bedrooms share the family bathroom. Whilst the property accommodates a maximum of eight, guests are welcome to use all five bedrooms.
View bedrooms - PetsOne dog is welcome on prior request
Pets are charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyChildren are very welcome. One cot and one highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThere is parking for two cars on the private drive. The house benefits from an electric oven, hob, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, Nespresso coffee machine, washing machine, and tumble dryer. The garden is not fully enclosed.
- Homestay includesA luxury welcome hamper including fresh bread, a selection of Scottish cheeses and local produce, board games, Sonos sound system, luxury bed linen and towels.House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- Eco-friendlyGround source heat pump, heat recovery system, borehole water supply, locally sourced stone and rewilded gardens that support biodiversity
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Perthshire
A tapestry of golden glens, towering forests, and lochs that unfurl beneath ancient mountains; in Perthshire – Scotland´s storied ´Big Tree Country´ – adventure stirs across the landscape. Here, walkers, artists, nature-lovers, and families alike find space to roam and reconnect.
Getting there
On the Map
The property is located above Loch Tay, between the villages of Killin and Kenmore in Perthshire, Scotland.
By Car
Guests travelling from London should allow approximately eight and a half hours, or five hours if travelling from Manchester.
By Train
Both Glasgow and Edinburgh train stations are approximately two hours away. Both of which have car hire facilities when booked in advance.
By Air
The closest airports are Glasgow and Edinburgh, both of which are approximately two hours away by car.
From the owner
“Above Loch Tay’s shimmering waters, our home stands as a celebration of land and light. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the untamed beauty of the Highlands, and we hope, like us, you feel the same sense of calm as you watch the day unfold. It’s amazing how much time you can spend simply gazing out. The mountain range visible from the house is the Ben Lawers massif and, from here, keen mountaineers can tackle eight Munros.”
We had always dreamt of having a lochside residence back in our homeland and were fortunate to find this breathtaking spot. We wanted our home to nestle into the landscape rather than stand out, so we sourced stone from a local quarry to ensure the colours blended with the surroundings. Naturally, we positioned all the glazing to face the loch and the mountain range beyond, commanding outstanding views.
The single-track road leading to the house forms part of the Rob Roy Way, as well as a section of the National Cycle Route No. 7. As such, walkers and cyclists have priority here, and cars are few and far between. To our right, there are the remains of an old settlement from the mid-1800s. These were once the houses of workers who mined copper at Tomnadashan. The mine attracts Monty Python fans, having been used as a filming location for The Holy Grail.
We are surrounded by wildlife, including deer, red squirrels, and hares – not to mention numerous pheasants, grouse, and partridges who frequently visit the garden.
Whether staying put to enjoy the seclusion, or venturing out into the hills, peace always ensues here.
Judith and Paul
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Perthshire with an insider’s perspective.
To See
The Falls of Acharn, Acharn
This beautiful, circular walking route takes you to The Falls of Acharn. Park at the small bridge in Acharn village and follow the trail to the waterfall. From the bridge, take the small opening in the wall, where a path leads directly to the loch.
To Do
Splash White Water Rafting, Aberfeldy
Explore Perthshire´s soul-stirring landscape from a different perspective. Expert guides from Splash Rafting can lead you on adventures through rapids on Scotland’s wild rivers. There are options for all experience levels.
To Do
Taymouth Marina, Kenmore
The marina offers a variety of watersport activities, including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. There´s also a fantastic spa with a hot tub, steam room, sauna, and a slide into the loch. Due to its popularity, book in advance.
To Eat
Glenlyon Tea Room and Post Office, Bridge of Balgie
At the end of a scenic drive from Killin, this picturesque lunch spot serves home-cooked meals and baked goods. Be sure to pick up some fresh bread to take home. As opening hours vary seasonally, it’s best to call ahead.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
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Starting over
25 Beautiful Homes
May 202550 of the best holiday cottages in the UK
The Telegraph
April 2025A sense of adventure
25 Beautiful Homes
April 202526 of the UK´s best beachfront cottages
The Times
April 2025The most beautiful houses in Britain to rent
Tatler
April 2025The world´s most heavenly destinations for astrotourism in 2025
Wallpaper*
March 2025The best beach houses to rent in the UK
Condé Nast Traveller
March 2025Stylish winter decorating ideas
Country Living
March 2025
Collections > Eco-friendly escapes > UK > Scotland > Perthshire > Silva
Related Collections
Short-term let license: PK13247F
EPC rating: Band B (88)
Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
